Application of motion economy for reducing musculoskeletal disorders risk factors among cable packers in an enterprise
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Abstract
This study examined the risk factors for developing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The principles of motion economy were applied to improve work methods for reduce the MSDs risk in ten volunteer cable packers. This study used a one-group quasi-experimental design. Working procedures were investigated using the flow process chart. Posture analysis evaluations using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) tools have been used to analyses the working postures of cable packers in an enterprise. The risk factors were found to include twisting/bending/flexing the wrists, lifting/moving, flexing/twisting/lateral bending of the trunk, bending/twisting/tilting of the neck, knee flexion, unilateral weight bearing on the legs, and continuous standing. The intervention included the use of the human body, the arrangement of the workplace, and the design of tools and equipment. Post-intervention results showed the reduction of risk factors of twisting/flexing, bending/flexing, hand, and forearm reaching, and significant unilateral weight bearing on the legs (p < 0.005). The risk level as for REBA, the score was reduced for 13 to 7 indicated a decrease from very high to moderate risk levels. Findings implied that principles of motion economy could be applied to improve work methods by reducing the risk factors that may affect the workers’ musculoskeletal disorders.
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